This 5-day tour blends private airport transfers with small group experiences, giving you the chance to explore some of Northern Vietnam’s must-see destinations, including Hoa Lu, Tam Coc in Ninh Binh, and an overnight cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers with limited time, this tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of these iconic locations.
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai Airport, you’ll be greeted by our driver at the pickup lobby. You’ll then enjoy a 45-minute drive to the heart of Hanoi, passing over the Red River, where you can catch a glimpse of the city’s unique architecture and its famously bustling traffic. Once you arrive in the Old Quarter, the driver will drop you off at your hotel.
7:00 - 7:30 AM: Our tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, you can either arrange your own transportation to our departure point or we can arrange a hotel pick-up for an additional fee. We will then set off for Ninh Binh. The province is located about 120 km from the center of Hanoi, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
9:00 AM: We'll make a brief stop along the way for you to stretch and relax.
10:30 AM: Upon arriving in Ninh Binh, our first stop will be Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Here, you'll have the opportunity to delve into Vietnamese history, exploring the feudal system under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties.
11:30: We'll hop on bikes for a 45-minute ride through the village, giving you a chance to experience local life firsthand.
12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties like goat meat and fried rice. Vegetarian options are also available at the buffet.
13:30 - 14:00: After lunch, we'll embark on a 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride to explore Tam Coc. As we glide along, you'll be captivated by the picturesque beauty of the area, with its lush paddy fields, winding river, and stunning cave formations, all set against a backdrop of sky and clouds. This enchanting landscape, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land,' truly lives up to its name.
4:00 PM: We’ll board the bus for our return trip to Hanoi.
6:30 - 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi, with drop-off at your hotel in the Old Quarter, concluding our one-day excursion.
8:00 – 8:30 AM: If transport is included, our driver will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Hanoi. From there, we’ll begin our journey to Halong City, enjoying a scenic drive through the picturesque Red River Delta. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with a convenient stop along the way for restrooms if needed.
11:45: Arrive at Sunworld International Harbor, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City.
12:15: Transfer to the Garden Bay Cruise boat by tender (5-10 minutes).
12:30: Enjoy a welcome drink, followed by a safety briefing, and then check into your cabin.
13:00: Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay while enjoying a set-menu lunch.
15:30: Kayak to explore the lagoons, swim, or relax on the beach at Cap La.
17:30: Relax and enjoy the sunset party during Happy Hour (from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM), while the boat cruises to the Cong Dong - Cong Do area, where it will anchor for the night.
19:00: Savor a BBQ dinner (on the sundeck if weather permits, otherwise in the restaurant).
21:00: Free time for evening activities, such as board games, squid fishing, playing guitar, watching movies, or karaoke (upon request). You can also visit our luxury sky bar (drinks are chargeable) and choose from a wide variety of wines, cocktails, brandy, and juices.
06:30: Start your day with a peaceful Tai Chi session on the deck.
07:00: Enjoy a light breakfast while the boat cruises toward the Vung Vieng area (approx. 45 minutes).
07:45: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village by bamboo boat, and experience the daily life of the local fishing community.
09:00: Return to the main boat for some relaxation and packing.
09:30: Check out of your cabin and unwind on the sundeck.
10:30: Savor your last view of Halong Bay over lunch as the boat heads back to shore.
11:30: Disembark and relax at the café lounge.
Our driver will greet you at the Cruise Waiting Lounge and transfer you to Hanoi. The journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, with a restroom stop available along the way (optional).
Our driver will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Noi Bai Airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, whether you're heading to the international or domestic terminal, depending on your needs.